Congratulations to John MacDermott M80, Sligo A.C. who was named Master Athlete of the Year at AAI Gala Awards on Wednesday, beating off stiff opposition from other 2 nominees, Annette Kealy, Raheny Shamrocks & Edel Maguire, Clonliffe Hrs. John has had a phenomenal year, winning 3 European Indoor titles, M80 Pent, 60mh & 400m plus 3 World  Outdoor titles in Gothenburg over 80mh, 200mh & 400m. He also set a World record of 36:06 in the 200mh in Gothenburg.

Also to George Maybury, Clonliffe Hrs who was presented with the Tadgh Lynch award in recognition of his services to Masters Athletic’s down through the years. Both winners were very worthy recipients of their respective awards.

A special thank you also to Michael Cornyn, who conducted great in depth interviews with both John & George and these can be viewed on Irish Masters Home & Away Whats App group or Irish Masters Athletics Facebook page together with many photos of the Gala.

As another very successful year draws to a close, focus of attention will now turn to 123.ie Masters Indoor Champs on 8th March 2025. Looking further afield, World Masters Indoor Champs in Florida on 23rd-30th March, please see www.wmaci2025.com  Entries will close on 23rd Jan 2025. There is a WhatsApp Group in place, please contact Anne Gormley @ 087 956 3134 if wish to be included.

Michael Fennell

IMAA Comm